Transgender Sprinter Nikki Hiltz Makes History Qualifying For 2024 Paris Olympics

Nikki Hiltz, an American transgender runner, has made history by qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympics in the women’s 1500m final, running a record-breaking time of 3:55.53.

“Yesterday afternoon in Eugene Oregon a childhood dream of mine came true. I’m not sure when this will fully sink in… All I know is today I’m waking up just so grateful for my people, overwhelmed by all the love and support, and filled with joy that I get to race people I deeply love and respect around a track for a living,” Hiltz shared through an Instagram post.

“This is bigger than just me,” Hiltz told CBS Sports. “It’s the last day of Pride Month, and I wanted to run this one for my community. All the LGBTQ folks, you guys brought me home that last 100. I could just feel the love and support.”

Hiltz will be joined by Emily Mackay, who finished second with a time of 3:55.90, and Elle St. Pierre, who took third with a time of 3:55.99. The trio of runners represent a strong representation of the women’s Olympic distance running team, showing the depth of talent in American middle-distance running.

The journey to this point has been filled with determination. Hiltz’s previous accolade of winning a silver medal in the 1500m at the Indoor World Championships in March was a warm-up to this Olympic qualification.

As the women’s 1500m event at the Paris Olympics approaches, set to begin on August 6 at 4:05 a.m. ET, anticipation builds for Hiltz and their teammates.

Some sports, like World Swimming, have restricted trans athletes from competing in the Olympics.